What does a vaccination do?

A vaccination functions by stimulating the immune system to provide disease immunity. When a vaccine is administered, it introduces a harmless component of a pathogen, such as a protein or a part of its genetic material, which prompts the body's immune system to recognize it as a foreign substance. In response, the immune system produces antibodies and activates specific cells that will grant the individual future protection against that disease. This process is crucial as it prepares the immune system to respond more effectively when exposed to the actual pathogen in the future, thereby preventing the disease from taking hold or significantly reducing its severity.

While there are vaccines that may address certain diseases after they have appeared, vaccinations primarily focus on prevention rather than treatment—hence their role is not aligned with curing existing diseases. Vaccines contribute to overall public health and can indirectly reduce medication costs by lowering the incidence of diseases that require treatment. Additionally, while vaccinations may lessen the reliance on some prescription medications by preventing diseases, they do not eliminate the need for all prescription medications, which can be necessary for various other health conditions. Understanding how vaccines work is essential for recognizing their importance in public health and disease prevention strategies.